Saturday, May 30, 2009

I believe that people come to church because, 1. they have a need, they continue coming because, 2. their need is being met, they become faithful when, 3. they themselves become needed.

Studies show of all the people who've dropped out of church, 80% left in the first year of their church involvement. If you can keep people a year, you'll probably keep them 20 years. The year begins when people start attending regularly enough to consider it a habit.

80% is a significant amount because people don't join planning to drop out. A key to keeping these is realizing that it is not up to the newcomers to assimilate themselves. It's something the church must be intentional about doing in the first year or they'll lose them. Who's responsible for the well-being of a baby -- the baby or its parents? Obviously a good parent will take 100 percent of the responsibility for the care of the baby, and the same is true of "baby" members.

Over time they develop maturity and connectedness, but it's not there at the beginning. We assume that "we're a friendly church." Pretty much all churches say they are a friendly church. And they are -- to each other, but to newcomers it's a whole different matter. The church "knows" they're friendly, so they can't imagine how newcomers don't feel the same thing. But it just doesn't happen that way.

It's interesting that there is a pattern to them leaving over the course of the year. There's a huge peak in months five to seven when about 60 percent of them leave. They come to realize that the need that brought them to the church in the first place is not being met. There's another spike in months 11 and 12 when about 35 percent of them leave. This is because by this time they should become needed themselves. If they have not found a place to serve by this time they "have a need" again and they will try another church to meet the need. The other 5 percent is scattered throughout the year.

We are seeing our church grow and as we grow, it is important that we remember to keep their focus on individuals and not numbers. A church is the people, not the buildings. People are unique individuals with unique gifts and talents. These individuals also come with their own issues and needs. For our church to continue to grow, we need to be prepared to meet the challenges and issues that these new people will bring with them. We need to pray, dream, and expect God to bless us with new and exciting people that will help us reach Leavenworth

Friday, May 29, 2009

Pr 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Eat with Non-Christians We all eat three meals a day. Why not make a habit of sharing one of those meals with a non-Christian or with a family of non-Christians? Go to lunch with a co-worker, not by yourself. Invite the neighbors over for family dinner. If it’s too much work to cook a big dinner, just order pizza and put the focus on conversation. When you go out for a meal, invite a non-Christian friend. Or take your family to family-style restaurants where you can sit at the table with strangers and strike up conversations. Have cookouts and invite Christians and non-Christians. Flee the Christian subculture.

Walk, Don’t Drive If you live in a walkable area, make a practice of getting out and walking around your neighborhood, apartment complex, or campus. Instead of driving to the mailbox or convenience store, walk to get mail or groceries. Be deliberate in your walk. Say hello to people you don’t know. Strike up conversations. Attract attention by walking the dog, bringing the kids. Make friends. Get out of your house! Take interest in your neighbors. Ask questions. Engage. Pray as you go. Save some gas, and meet some people.

Be a Regular Instead of hopping all over the city for gas, groceries, haircuts, eating out, and coffee, go to the same places at the same times. Get to know the staff. Smile. Ask questions. Be a regular. I have friends at coffee shops all over the city. My friends at Starbucks donate a ton of leftover pastries to our church 2-3 times a week. We use them for church gatherings and occasionally give them to the homeless. Build relationships. Be a regular.

Hobby with Non-Christians Pick a hobby that you can share. Get out and do something you enjoy with others. Try city league sports or local rowing and cycling teams. Share your hobby by teaching lessons, such as sewing, piano, knitting, or tennis lessons. Be prayerful. Be intentional. Be winsome. Have fun. Be friendly.

Talk to Your Co-workers How hard is that? Take your breaks with intentionality. Go out with your team or task force after work. Show interest in your co-workers. Pick three or four and pray for them. Form moms’ groups in your neighborhood and don’t make them exclusively non-Christian. Schedule play dates with the neighbors’ kids. Work on mission.

Volunteer with Non-Profits Find a non-profit in your part of the city and take a Saturday a month to serve your city. Bring your neighbors, your friends, or your small group. Spend time with your church serving your city. Once a month. You can do it!

Participate in City Events Instead of playing XBox, watching TV, or surfing the net, participate in city events. Go to fundraisers, festivals, cleanups, summer shows, and concerts. Participate missionally. Strike up conversation. Study the culture. Reflect on what you see and hear. Pray for the city. Love the city. Participate with the city.

Serve Your Neighbors Help a neighbor by weeding, mowing, building a cabinet, or fixing a car. Stop by the neighborhood association or apartment office and ask if there is anything you can do to help improve things. Ask your local Police and Fire Stations if there is anything you can do to help them. Get creative. Just serve!

Thursday, May 28, 2009

We all have time of anticipation. We anticipated the birth of our children and grandchildren. That was a time of joyful anticipation. We have anticipated the trips to the dentist. That is usually a dreadful anticipation. We have times when we went to eat something that is special. That is exciting anticipation. Any day Jesus may return for the saints of God in the rapture. This is glorious anticipation. This thought that Jesus is coming some probably gives us one of two avenues of thought. They are thus.1. The Lord may come today.2. Or this may be my last day on this earth.These thoughts should permeate our very being and thoughts. In fact we should daily anticipate the rapture. It should never be far from our thoughts. Are there some things that point to the fact that Jesus may come soon? Even though Matthew 24:4-12 points to the tribulation period, we know that the tribulation period will come immediately on the heels of the Rapture.1. False messiahs verse 5 “For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.”2. Frequent wars verse 6 “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”3. Frequent catastrophes verse 7 ” For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.”4. Fervent persecutions verse 9 “Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.”5. False prophets verse 11 “And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.”6. Feeble love verse 12 “And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.”

We see these things so plainly today but Jesus purposely placed this statement in this passage for our encouragement in verse 6‚ “For all these must come to pass but the end is not yet.” Jesus also gave more words of encouragement in other passages. Matthew 24:44“Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” Matthew 25:13 “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.” Luke 21:28 “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”

Monday, May 25, 2009

Ro 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Dr Lee Robertson said "If people are not being saved in your ministry there is only one of two problems: either the Gospel has lost it's power or it's not being preached."

In Romans 1 Paul enters upon a large discourse of the doctrine of Justification, and he lays down his thesis by describing the deplorable condition of the Gentile world in verses 21-32. Paul is not only telling of the horrible condition of the Gentile world in his day, but he is describing the culture and styles of the American life of today.

Our country needs a power such as Paul is introducing to the Roman people. We need a sweeping of this power to cover our nation in a rapid manner. On God’s time clock we are at One Minute till Midnight and there is not much time left to have the Power Of The Gospel turned loose and cover this nation with the saving message of Jesus Christ. We know that the onslaught of the evil one will wax worse and worse and all of the world system will eventually be turned away from God.

This failure of the world to listen to the saving message of the Gospel does not lessen the power of the Gospel. It is still just as powerful and as able as it ever was. It can save to the uttermost. It can save the vilest of sinners. It can change the heart and life of the worlds greatest sinner.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Col 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

In Col. 1:9-14 we are told that Paul prayed for seven things:

(1) That they might be given PERCEPTION. We have this in verse 9. He prayed that these Colossians "might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding". We need spiritual enlightenment in order that we might know the will of God and do it. By nature we cannot understand the things of the Spirit of God.

(2) That they might lead lives PLEASING to the Lord. This is mentioned in verse 10, "that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing ...".

(3) That they might engage in PROFITABLE service. Verse 10 says, "being fruitful in every good work ..." Until we become Christians our lives are unprofitable, and it is only when we are converted that they are made profitable. The will of God is that our lives should manifest the fruit of the Spirit. In John 15, we find that there are three stages: fruit, verse 2; more fruit, verse 2; and much fruit, verses 5 and 8.

(4) That they might PROGRESS in the Christian life, Verse 10 continues, “ .. . and increasing in the knowledge of God”, and the operative word is the word "increasing". Paul longed that these Christians should grow. See the beautiful picture in Hos. 14:5-7. The Christian life is in three stages: "little children", young men' and "fathers", 1 John 2:12-14.

(5) That they might be endued with POWER. Verse 11 goes on, "strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power". Paul is praying that they might have the experience of Pentecost, Acts 2:4, for none of the things of which we have been thinking are possible in our own strength. Potentially, the power of the Holy Spirit has been given to us; but what about experimentally?

(6) That they might have PATIENCE. Notice these three vital words in verse 11, "unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness." "Patience" here means "endurance in the face of trial", compare Jas. 5:11. "Longsuffering" indicates "gentleness" and "loving kindness". 1 Cor. 13:4. The apostle prays that these Christians might endure in the face of fierce testing, that they might do so with a gentle and loving spirit, and that they might be filled with joy, even though called upon to suffer for their Lord.

(7) That they might be filled with PRAISE. It is important to notice the difference between praise and prayer. There are some things for which we are to pray; but there are blessings for which we are to thank God because He has already given them to us, notice the word "hath" three times in verses 12 and 13, and the word "have" in verse 14. We do not need to pray, nor should we pray for these things which we have. What are they?

(a) His PROVISION, verse 12. He has given us an "inheritance". Thank God.

(b) His POWER, verse 13. See what He has delivered us from and translated us to! Thank God!

(c) His PARDON, verse 14. How we should thank God that all our sins have been removed from us, Psa. 103:12; blotted out, Isa. 44:22; cast into the depths of the sea, Mic. 7:19; and that God will remember them against us no more, Heb. 10:17. Thank God!

Friday, May 22, 2009

1Ti 1:2 Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.

A. Saving Faith.1. It is obviously impossible to be a true child in the faith without experiencing genuine salvation. 2. Throughout this letter Paul testifies to the geniuses of Timothy’s salvation.a. In verse one he says, "God our Saviour".b. In (1 Tim 4:10) "For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe."c. In 6:11, Paul says "you, man of God". Then he says in verse 12 to "fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called".3. Unmistakable evidence of his salvation comes in 2 Tim. 1:5 where Paul speaks of Timothy’s "sincere faith".

B. Continuing Obedience.1. The N.T. teaches repeatedly that the hallmark of a true believer is a life-pattern of obedience.a. (John 14:15) "If ye love me, keep my commandments."b. (John 8:31) "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;"c. (Eph 2:10) "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."d. Good works are not the basis of salvation, but they are the evidence of it.2. The pattern of Timothy’s life was obedience.a. (1 Tim 4:6) "If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained."

C. Humble Service.1. A true child in the faith is a servant.a. Paul described the conversion of the Thessalonians in these words (1 Th 1:9) "For they themselves show of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;"b. The Christian life is to be lived as a stewardship of service to the sovereign Lordship of Jesus Christ. c. The disciples left everything to follow and serve Jesus. d. True salvation is marked by a servant’s heart. c. Humble service characterized Timothy’s life.

D. Sound Doctrine.1. Timothy was a student and teacher of sound doctrine; he was "brought up in the truths of the faith" (4:6).2. A good minister must be doctrinally sound!

E. Courageous Conviction.1. Those who make an impact for the cause of Christ must have courage to stand for their convictions.2. Any dead fish can float downstream. It takes a live one to fight the current.3. Strong conviction comes from spiritual maturity and knowledge of the Word, and is essential in any effective ministry.4. Timothy was to be a fighter.a. Paul put him in Ephesus to "instruct certain men not to teach strange doctrines" (1:3).b. He was to "fight the good fight". (1:18).c. He was to "keep that which is committed to his trust” (6:20).

Thursday, May 21, 2009

2Ti 2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

A. The priority of relationship. "son"

* God always focuses on what we are first, then what we do. "Son".* A sinner (lost person) has no standing with God, regardless of what he may do in the way of goodness, morality, or religion.* A son has an irrevocable standing with God, regardless of what he may do in the way of goodness, morality, or religion.· Sonship is a matter of relationship, not performance.· A son is simply a son. He has nothing to prove, nothing to earn, to remain a son.· I hate it when one of my girls tells a lie, but I still love her because she's my daughter.· It disappoints me when one of my girls disobeys, but I'd never disown her.

Timothy might fail as a teacher, soldier, athlete or farmer, but he would always be a son, a member of God's family. A teacher must teach, a soldier must fight, an athlete must compete, and a farmer must work, or else they have failed at that task.However, a person cannot fail at being a son because it is a matter of relationship, not performance.

B. The privilege of relationship. "grace"

The statement "be strong in ... grace" means to be evident, plain, clear with the grace that is inherent because of our relationship to Jesus Christ.· Grace tells us that we are loved, valuable and not left to face life alone.· Grace tells us that we can depend upon Christ for whatever we need in life.· Paul was reminding Timothy that in his roles as teacher, soldier, athlete and farmer, Christ was the SOURCE of his success.· He is our wisdom, defender, strength and rewarder.· He doesn't expect us to succeed on our own, but in dependence upon Him.

Timothy was facing tough times. It appeared as if the faith he clung to was taking a beating, but that was not Timothy's concern. It is God's job to build His church. Our job is to walk in dependence upon the grace of God, equipping others to do the same - enduring hardship, playing by the rules, and laboring patiently until Jesus calls us home.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

DAVID SAID: "God setteth the solitary in families" (Psa.68:6)PAUL SAID: "Let every man have his own wife and let every woman have her own husband" (1 Cor 7:2)

CHAS. H SPURGEON "When home is ruled according to God"s word, angels might be asked to stay with us and they would not find themselves out of their element "

GOD IS PRO-FAMILY - BIBLE IS PRO-FAMILY

JESUS SAID " Whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them I liken him unto a wise man who built his (HOUSE) on a rock.

Lot's of homes are on the ROCKS but they need to be on THE ROCK.- R. G. Lee " Divorce No ! Murder, Yes !- One lady said she was going to check at Court House to see if their marriage license might have expired.- Man - married 15 years and the Lord took her - married again 10 years and the Lord took her - 3rd. time has been married now 5 years, He told the Lord. " Anytime you want her Lord you can have her."

SOCIAL ACTIVISTS & LIBERAL THINKERS want to redefine the family

-NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON FAMILY SEVERAL YEARS AGO:- TWO homosexuals living together constituted a family.- Two Lesbians same.. COUPLE living together.. unmarried

1. THE FOUNDATION OF THE HOME.. JESUS ANSWERED the Religious philosophers of His day saying "Have ye not read that He which made them at the beginning made them MALE and FEMALE, and said For this cause Shall a man leave his mother and father and shall cleave to his wife and they twain shall be one flesh. Wherefore they are no more twain but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together let no man put asunder." (Matt.19:4 - 6)

THREE BASIC DECISIONS OF LIFE.When will I die ?What shall I do with my life ?Who shall I spend my life with ?

HOME TO BE SET UP ON BIBLICAL GROUNDS:1. ONLY BELIEVERS SHOULD MARRY.2. JUST LOVE DOES NOT JUSTIFY MARRIAGE (SIT. ETHICS)3. PREGNANCY DOES NOT JUSTIFY MARRIAGE.4. FAMILY TRADITIONS ARE NOT ALWAYS BIBLICAL.5. SOCIAL PLANNERS ARE USUALLY NOT BIBLICAL.6. THE RIGHTS CROWD ARE POOR MARRIAGE RISKS.

2. THE FOE OF THE FAMILY. (GENESIS 3:1 - 7)- DEVIL told Eve she would be like God.. Her own God..Boss- We live in the " ME " generation.

A. HE TRIED TO TALK THE WOMAN OUT OF HER PLACE..BE GOD !- Needs security..especially when she gets a little age on.- Mothering and homemaking instinct.- Needs to feel loved.- Needs understanding and sympathy.- Thoughtful in little things (flowers, candy, dinner,birthday- Verbal Reassurance.- Physical attention.- Positive Attitude.- Feel Needed..Worth something- Assurance that her man is right with God.

B. HE TRIED TO UNDERMINE ADAMS PLACE TOO. MAN'S PLACE IS:

- He is the High Priest..Accountable to God..- Not a dictator but a leader.- Must set up guidelines- Assume Authority ( Somebody will be in charge.HE,SHE, THEM)- Delegate Responsibility ( involve everybody)- Supervise. ( Right on top of things)- Ego needs building- physical needs ( food and love) feed him.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Our emphasis up to this point has been door knocking and trying to get adults to visit our church. With our "spring campaign" coming to a close and summer coming very quickly we will redirect our focus and during these summer months. We direct our efforts to trying to reach children and young adults. Our Thursday door knocking will be more visitation than door knocking and Saturday we will start Bus visitation.We will start a van route and a new Sunday school class for the young adult. Every other Sunday night we will have Sunday school teachers meeting to train them how to build their classes. Discipleship and fellowship will be the main emphasis. I learned a long time ago that you reap a harvest where you sow the emphasis. We had 45 people with 5 visitors Sunday and only had 4 children, 3 of my grandsons and a little boy that plays with them.

Here are 10 reasons to start "Children's Ministries"1 – BECAUSE – There are millions of children under the age of 12 that are without any spiritual knowledge or instruction.2 – BECAUSE – Over 75% of children in America never attend Sunday School. These children are our future.3 – BECAUSE – It cost the Church around $10,00.00 to get an adult saved and less that $1.00 to get a child saved.4 – BECAUSE – To see a child saved is to see a soul saved and a life that can be lived for Christ.5 – BECAUSE – What is learned in childhood is remembered is old age. Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:66 – BECAUSE – Children need Jesus and we must seek them. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? Matthew 18:11-127 – BECAUSE – Children are trustful, believing, teachable, and easily led to Christ OR AWAY FROM HIM.8 – BECAUSE – Christ warns of the penalty for neglecting them. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 18:6-109 – BECAUSE – “Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” Matthew 18:1410 – BECAUSE – WE LOVE THEM!

Monday, May 18, 2009

I have found a set of devotional thought in my files that have been very helpful to me. To who ever wrote them I want you to know they are helpful, and I believe they will be a blessing to others, so I will post a few of them here over the next several days.

"Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee." (Job 22:21)

Eliphaz thinks Job has forsaken the Lord, thus bringing on his miseries. And because Eliphaz knew the Lord, he felt that Job and the Lord just needed to get reacquainted, "Acquaint now thyself with him." Well Eliphaz was wrong about Job but he was right about the Lord. A close relationship with the Lord does not prevent troubles but in fact often is the cause of them. But to not know the Lord is to not know the peace He gives in the midst of the troubles. "Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace." Now I don’t have to ask you if you have any troubles right now, I’m sure you could write a book about them. But I do want to ask if you have peace anyway? If not, you too may need to get reacquainted with the Lord. You cannot bear your cross without getting splinters, but the peace of God still passes understanding for those who stay acquainted.

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Nehemiah 2:17 - Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.

I Peter 2:5 - Ye also, as lively stones , are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

I. Envision Eternity. Nothing can be done without a vision.A. Nehemiah 2:12-15 And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem: neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon. And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire. Then I went on to the gate of the fountain, and to the king's pool: but there was no place for the beast that was under me to pass. Then went I up in the night by the brook, and viewed the wall, and turned back, and entered by the gate of the valley, and so returned.B. Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

II. Expect Enemies. Nothing will be done without opposition.A. Nehemiah 4:1-3 But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall , he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned? Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall .B. II Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

III. Exhibit Exaltation. Nothing should be done without adoration.A. Nehemiah 12:27 And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps.B. Hebrews 13:15-16 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

IV. Encourage Everyone. Nothing may be done without obedience.A. Nehemiah 13:28, 31, 40, 43B. Luke 14:23 And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

Friday, May 15, 2009

Quote: Some men will follow Christ on certain conditions--if He will not lead them through rough roads--if He will not enjoin them any painful tasks--if the sun and wind do not annoy them--if He will remit a part of His plan and order. But the true Christian, who has the spirit of Jesus, will say, as Ruth said to Naomi, "Whither thou goest I will go," whatever difficulties and dangers may be in the way. -RICHARD CECIL

You and I were not created to just get married, have children and a successful career, live a good life, then grow old and enjoy retirement. These are some of life’s blessings, but they are not our purpose. The problem with most of us is that we have taken life’s benefits and tried to make them our purpose. That would characterize most Americans today, including Christians and non-Christians alike. The pursuit of the “American Dream” is kind of like eating the side dishes and deserts before the main course at a meal; sure they taste good going down, but they aren’t very filling! When we make life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness our purpose in life, we will find that these things do not fulfill us, and will be very dissatisfied. So if the purpose of life is not marriage, success, happiness, or any other such thing, what is it? Our purpose is to find God’s perfect will for each of our lives and to do it. To put it another way, to be a well done, good and faithful servant for our Master.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

I found this in some of my outlines don't know where it came from but it is pretty good so I thought I would share it with you. It might be a help to you

“Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;” Hebrews 12:15

Some Things I Have Learned About A Dandelion (It is hardy)• It sends down one main taproot and can regenerate the entire plant from any part of that root. • It grows low to the ground to protect itself from grazing animals and lawnmowers until it is ready to go to seed.• It can grow anywhere. * Forest Floor * Rocky beach * Well-kept lawns It is prolific.• It goes to seed rapidly. * In 12-18 hours, it goes from a flower bulb to a full seed head.• One plant produces hundreds of seeds.• It multiplies efficiently. * Every petal is a complete flower and can completely reproduce. Is is deceptive and destructive.• It begins with a pretty yellow flower.• It becomes ugly very quickly. How many newly mown yards are marred by the dandelion stems that pop right back up?• It robs sunlight and nutrients from all the plants and grass around it. It is hard to destroy.• You have to kill the entire root.• The seeds are widespread. Seeds can travel miles and have been known to cross mountains.

Some Things I Have Learned About Bitterness (It is hardy)• It has a strong root. * Bitterness usually has its root in an event over which I have no control. I am hurt and rather than allow God to use the event according to His will, I get bitter.• It grows deep in the heart to avoid detection and removal until it has a firm hold and is ready to go to seed.• It can happen to any of us. * The wild untamed heart who may say, “I don’t care.” Yes, you do. * The thin, stony, or sandy heart who may say, “Things just don’t get to me.” Yes, they do. * The guarded, tended heart who may say, “I stay close to God.” It only takes one undetected or ignored seed of bitterness to plant a root. It is prolific.• It grows and reproduces rapidly• One event to which I inappropriately respond will create hundreds of seeds of sin in my life.• It multiplies efficiently. * Unless I get the root, every petal of the bitterness will generate sin. Is is deceptive and destructive.• It appears pleasant at first. * When something bad happens, doesn’t it feel good to blame and complain?• It becomes ugly very quickly.• It robs from the good things in my heart and life. It is hard to destroy.• You have to kill the entire root. • The root of bitterness is two-fold: * A lack of faith in God. * Selfishness. Galatians 5:19-21 The works of the flesh are all rooted in selfishness.• The seeds are widespread. “… and thereby many be defiled.”

To overcome a root of bitterness, I must:1. Confess my selfishness.2. Give my heart and hurt to God and trust Him.3. Choose to respond positively to the events in my life

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

The Development of Christian CharacterColossians 3:8-24 No one is automatically a Christian. You become a Christian by a conscious choice (Acts 26:28). Likewise, Christian character must be devel­oped after one is saved. It doesn’t happen auto­matically (see 2 Pet. 1:5-7).

I. PUT OFF (Col 3:8-9) But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;What the believer must do himself. A. Anger— 1. Sinful anger—Selfish. Anger is sinful in the following circumstances:· When it is excited without legitimate and righteous cause (cf. Mt. 5:22).· When it broods and lingers.· When it is against the person rather than the offence.· When it is harbored by an unforgiving spirit. 2. Righteous anger—Unselfish. Whatever causes God to be angry, is permissible. B. Wrath— Anger that boils over—Fits of temper. C. Malice— Hostility / vindictive spirit. Anger accompanied with a desire of revenge and to inflict pain or injury (Rom. 12:17-19). D. Blasphemy—Sacrilegious (abuse of sacred things); using God’s name in vain; cursing; profane and irreverent speech; Heretical doctrines (cf. 1 Tim. 1:20). F. Filthy communication—Impurity; dirty, nasty, obscene, lewdness. “If it is doubtful it is dirty.” G. Lying—Deception (cf. Eph. 4:25). Lying destroys trust. H. The old man— Why would these deeds be evident in a believer’s life? 1. There are only TWO MEN in God’s reck­oning (1 Cor. 15:47). 2. The old man is what we were in Adam—What we were before we were saved or in Christ. It is our old adamic nature. 3. Can never be “put off” completely. 4. The old man is put off by refusing to honor his requests (Rom. 6:6-14).II. PUT ON (Col 3:10-14) And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. A. The new man (vs. 10-11)—The Lord Jesus Christ (cf. 1 Cor. 15:47). With the NEW birth comes the NEW man making you a NEW creature, with NEW deeds. Become what you really are. Develop the Christ-like characteristics. B. Bowels of mercy (v. 12)—Compassion; tender-hearted; Pity; Not treating people as they may deserve. C. Kindness—Courteous; polite; benevolent; Not mean-spirited— A desire to make others happy. D. Humility—Not proud (Phil. 2:3-8). E. Meekness—Yielding rights. Not weakness, but selfless. MOSES (Num. 12:3)· Passive in defending self, but strong to defend God and His Word;· Indifferent to promote self, but resolute to promote God and His Word;· Casual about fulfilling our own will, but zealous about doing the God’s will. F. Longsuffering—Patience G. Forbearance—Tolerance; No retaliation. H. Forgiveness—(Eph. 4:31-32). Canceling the debt. I. Charity—(1 Cor. 13). ILLUS: I could hold up a picture of a group of neatly dressed, well-groomed, smiling people in one hand. In the other hand a picture of people who were scruffy, slov­enly dressed, dirty, with callous expres­sions. These two pictures illustrate the im­age of what we must put on and put off.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

1 Cor 3:1-3—"And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?"

The longer a person is saved, the more spiritually mature he should become. A carnal Christian is a baby spiritually. Spiritual maturity is de­pendent upon a spiritual diet (1 Pet. 2:2; Matt. 4:4; Acts 20:32). Five years had passed since Paul founded the Corinthian church, yet they were still spiritual infants.TRAITS OF BABIES:1) Cannot control their temper.2) Cannot digest meat (v. 2; Heb. 5:12-6:2).3) Cannot be content (envy— v. 3)4) Fighting amongst themselves (v. 3)5) No sense of value—time; money; souls6) Impatience7) No sense of danger or harm8) Self-centered (inconsiderate of others needs)9) Personality focus—"Who is better?" "My preacher is better than yours."

...are ye not carnal, and walk as MEN," meaning as unsaved men.3:4-5—"For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?"

Monday, May 11, 2009

Our church was built in 1961 and it looks like 1961 when you walk in. So we wanted to make things look more up to date. I don't want to invest a lot of money in the present building because in about 2 years I want to build a new auditorium. We have seating room for about 120 in the auditorium so at the rate we are growing, (5 per month) we will fill the building in about a year and a half from now. We will then need to go to two services in order to keep growing until we get a new building built.We decided to remodel the foyer and the fellow we hired to help with it will start today and while that is being done, I will be working on the flower beds, digging out the remaining roots and building the wall and filling with dirt. It is a big job but will make the front of the church look so much nicer.I meet with the deacons this morning for breakfast at 6:30 and then we will work on updating the constitution. I don't think, or at least I hope this will not be to involved. I have an appointment on Tuesday morning and then Tuesday night I have been invited to our city commission meeting to meet the new mayor and the commissioners.We have our "Saturation Saturday" this Saturday This is when everybody in the church will come out to help, some will go out and pass out fliers and others will help by preparing lunch for those who go out, it will be exciting. Bro Steven Henderson from Harvest Baptist in Manhattan, Kansas, (about 100 miles from us) is bringing about 40 of his folks up to help us pass out 7000 fliers inviting people to our "Friend Day" on May 31th. Our goal for that Sunday is 150 that will be a big accomplishment for our church. My first service at Northwest Baptist Church, back last September we had 10. These last three Sundays we have had attendance in the 50's.I love it when I am busy like this. I is very challenging but it is also very rewarding to get a lot of things accomplished for the Lord. I wish you would pray for our church. It will be so encouraging to them to know there are those out there who are pulling for them. When I took the church they were very discouraged and thinking about shutting it down. God has shown His favor on the work that's being done and the people have a new hope for the future.

Saturday, May 9, 2009

EACH born again believer should begin each day with God. Psalm 46:10, Be still and know that I am God.... We should have a daily quiet time. We should have this quiet time alone, away from the cares and interruptions of the world. To do this, you may have to cut the ringer off on the phone!

Let me note some things about personal devotions:

1. Read the Word of God. Read it carefully and prayerfully. It is a blessing to allow God to speak to us through His Word. Memorize a portion of the Word of God. Psalm 119:11. God's Word will keep you from sin or sin will keep you from God's Word. Meditate on God's Word. Josh 1:8; Ps. 1:2. Take a verse-go over and over it in your mind and allow the Holy Spirit to teach you. God will give you something fresh each day.

2. Pray. Spend some time talking to God about whatever is on your heart. He will give you the desire to pray and what to pray for.

3. The time of personal devotions should be in the morning before the day begins and before the cares of this life have a chance to rush in upon us. Our minds are fresh in the morning, and we need to go to God first, giving Him the best part of the day.

Friday, May 8, 2009

Dr. Curtis Hutson said, “I have learned that I am the only one that can mess up my day.” That is a profound statement. He went on to say that he could not allow people, circumstances, health, money, or the lack of it, weather, or any other matter or event to be the determining factor in his level of victory and satisfaction. Bro Hutson had gotten hold on the truth in the statements of Moses who said, “the Lord is my strength and my song,” (Exo 15:2) and of David when he said, “the Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer,” (Psa. 28:7) and Solomon who said, “the Lord is my portion,” and the writer of Hebrews when he said, “the Lord is my helper.” (Heb. 13:6) The fact that Dr. Hutson was dying of cancer when he made the statement, make it even more profound.

I suppose that all of us have heard this truth many times but never really heard it. One man said “I heard that a long time before I heard that.” Another said, “I saw that a long time before I saw that.” What would it be worth to get hold of that truth and get as much from it as Dr. Hutson did.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Psalm 143:5 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.We are forgetful folks. That is one reason we are blessed with a complete Bible. It helps remember some blessings. We must not forget there are some spiritual things to remember; some precious things about God that ought to stand out to His people.I. REMEMBER HIS WORD Joshua 1:3 “Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses.” We are to remember the Word that God sends our way. Moses wanted them to remember that God promised Israel rest and a land. Never forget from day to day the things God promises you in His wonderful Word. If we forget His Word we will falter, flop, and even fail. Vance Havner said: “There are more Bibles sold and less read than any other book.” I can see this true more and more. We need to spend more and more time in this Bible as this world becomes more and more wicked.

II. REMEMBER HIS WONDERS 1st Chronicles 16:12 “Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth”Psalm 78:10-11 “They kept not the covenant of God, and refused to walk in his law; And forgat his works, and his wonders that he had shewed them.”"Wonder" comes from the Heb. word "pala"–which means, "separate or distinguish." The passage of Psalm seventy-eight speaks of an event so great it is distinguished from normal events. The crossing through the Red Sea by Israel was definitely a miracle. Still today, God is a miracle working God. We would be wise to keep that in mind.

III. REMEMBER HIS WILLINGNESS Isaiah 41:10 “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Three times in this one verse alone, the Lord tells us that He will. That alone should be a great encouragement to us. He is our strength. He is our help. He is the one who is doing the holding. The Lord is willing and ready to help us with our problems, our pressures and our perplexities. That encourages us in prayer, because we know we do not have to convince Him to help us, He has already promised He would.

IV. REMEMBER HIS WAYS Isaiah 55:8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.” God reminds us that our ways are not His ways. So many times, the way we want something is not the right way, but God’s way is always right. Remember how God took Joseph from the pit to the palace? This did not happen overnight. This probably took years. We show our impatience many times wanting God work now. It is in His time.

V. REMEMBER HIS WORKS Psalm. 143:5 “I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.”God works are described in the Bible in the following ways. The works of God are—"marvelous"(1st Chro 16:12), "wonderous"(1st Chronicles 16:9), "great" (Judges 2:7), and as "wonderful" (Psalm 40:5). Don’t forget these things!He is still working in this world today. He is still working on me. Remember the little chorus that is supposed to be for children but is so adaptable for many of us. He's still working on me, to make me what I ought to be. It took him just a week to make the moon and the stars The sun and the earth and Jupiter and Mars How loving and patient He must be. He's still working on me. I am glad He has not given up on me. The finished produce will be worth seeing because it will bring honor and glory to Him.

What can I say but lets remember Him. Ecc 12:1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them”

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Titus 2:1-5 But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

The Bible gives the method of Parental Succession:

Older men to teach younger men to become good and decent men.Older women to teach younger women to become good and decent women.

That is extremely profound, isn’t it?

Until about 30-40 years ago most churches had Sunday School classes that were divided into women and men’s classes. The older women had the opportunity to teach the younger women. For the most part, churches do not have those divided classes anymore and have forfeited that teaching time. Those women who are over 50 were taught by their mother or Sunday School teacher this principle. I am not speaking of a spiritual learning, rather just the principle of teaching womanhood and motherhood.

I am not saying to all those who are under 50 that you missed out on this or that you have failed in teaching this same principle. The failure lies within the society of the generations involved. The educational system changed 30 to 40 years ago. This principle is not passed on as it once was, thus for many who would be teaching their off-spring now have never heard, nor have they been taught to teach these things to their own children. All of this changed during the 1960’s. The 1970’s produced a whole new series of “value systems”. No longer does the mother pass on to the daughter the principles of motherhood and womanhood, but now it comes from society and TV and even music.

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Acts 26:24-29 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest. Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

The various attitudes people hold concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. For instance, in this passage, three different men are mentioned: Festus, Paul, and King Agrippa II. Each of these men represents a different attitude toward Jesus.

Festus represents those who HATE the Lord. He was antagonistic toward the Gospel message. He accused Paul of being “mad”. They said the same thing about Jesus when He was here, Mark 3:21; John 10:20. No one says that about people who go all out for money, pleasure or power. But, they do about those who go all out for the Lord!

Paul represents those who HONOR the Lord. He was sold out and living every minute of his life for Jesus, Phil. 1:21. I want to be like Paul!

Then there is Agrippa. He represents those who are HOLDING OUT on the Lord. People like Agrippa are right on the verge of coming to Jesus, but for some reason, they are holding out. He was close, but as they say, “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades”. An “almost Christian” is still not saved!

Monday, May 4, 2009

This is the message I preached last night. God gave an unusual liberty I believe our church I preparing for a great thing that God wants to do here in Leavenworth.

1 Chr 22:5 And David said, Solomon my son is young and tender, and the house that is to be builded for the LORD must be exceeding magnifical, of fame and of glory throughout all countries: I will therefore now make preparation for it. So David prepared abundantly before his death.

I. Preparation involves Passion – the house that is to be...MUST be exceeding magnifical

A. Passionate about the project – NOTICE!! Years of preparation before years of building!! B. Passionate about the project's excellence – exceeding magnifical; do it right if you're going to do it

II. Preparation involves Purpose – I WILL therefore

A. The purpose was to affect his children B. The purpose was to affect his country C. The purpose was to affect ALL the countries

III. Preparation involves Priority – I will therefore NOW make preparation

A. Your calling must be a priority – the call to preach is the call to prepare B. Your classes must be a priority – study to show thyself approved unto God C. Your comprehension must be a priority – understanding the magnitude of the task

IV. Preparation involves Persistence – so David prepared ABUNDANTLY before his death

A. You don't get prepared accidentally – the things you need must be learned deliberately B. You don’t get prepared part-time – every day must be moving you toward your goal C. You don't get prepared playing around – careless, flippant attitude will not work!

Sunday, May 3, 2009

A Christian once visited a farmer to talk to him about Christ. "I wouldn't come to that church," the farmer said. "I know ‘So-and-so’ who attends that church and claims to be a Christian and ‘So-and-so’ who attends church there. They don't live any differently from me. I'm as good as they are." Everywhere the farmer went he told about the hypocrites in that Church. Months passed and the Christian brother went to see the farmer again. "I want to buy a hog", said the Christian. The farmer showed all his best hogs to him. Then they came to the runt. "I believe I will take the runt," the Christian said. “You don't want that one. He's the worst in the litter.” "I sure do" said the Christian. So they loaded the runt in the truck. "Now," said the Christian, "what if I take this pig here from your farm and ride all over this area telling folks that this is the kind of hogs you raise?" "That's not fair!" the farmer exclaimed. "I have some nice hogs and you want to show people that runt?!" To which the Christian replied, "If it's fair for the church it's fair for the hogs!"

We are guilty of this many times ourselves and are like the world when it comes to our judging the Church, aren't we. As in the above story so aptly illustrates how we and people of the world misjudge the church by pointing to the hypocrites and acting as if all Christians are like them. Weare quick in doing this. But do we not sometimes do the same things to one another. When you see only the weaknesses in the life of your Christian brethren and fail to see their good points, are you not doing the same thing the world does? So then, go out and do right. Live right. Sin not...and above all, be not your brother's Judge. Leave the judging to our Lord!

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Sherman Tank – Ask how much influence he has; how important is the issue; how many people will be affected; will it affect the church? Avoid unimportant issues. When a need to confront- they don’t understand tactfulness – confront specific issues face to face.He tends to cause most pain because he feels little pain himself. As a result, he can be unreasonable. He has the ability to draw a following.Space Cadet – Walk to a different drummer. They are not good sounding boards. They have difficulty pulling people together in the same direction. Don’t put them in positions of leadership. Search for the key to his uniqueness and seek to develop it. They work best alone. (Bill Gates type)Volcano – This is an explosive, unpredictable type of person. They cause tension. Calmness on your part is key. Try to isolate them and allow them to vent steam. Don’t try to interrupt them as they will not be listening. Minimize any exaggerations and remove any hearsay and deal only with the facts. Then give a clear, soft answer. Hold them accountable for the things they say and the people they harm.Thumb Sucker – They tend to pout and are full of self-pity. The pouting is used to manipulate people. Make the Thumb Sucker aware of the fact that moodiness is a choice. Teach them that they are responsible for the atmosphere that they create. Sometimes it is helpful to expose them to people with real problems. Praise him for his positive ideas and actions and ignore him when he’s sucking his thumb.Wet Blanket – He is constantly down and negative. He sees a problem in every solution. He finds problems and makes excuses. He needs to choose whether or not he’s going to risk being positive and responsible. If he chooses to change his behavior, he’ll have a cheering section. If not, your best move will be away from him.Garbage Collector - He has surrendered his life to the leadership of their lives to negative emotions. They nurse their wounds and hold onto their wounded ill spirits. Briefly, they stink. Garbage in life is depressing, but to collect it and haul it around is downright sick. Confront them about the way they try to represent other people. Never allow them to state, “there are many others who feel this way also.” Ask for names. Challenge them when they make generalizations and exaggerations.The User – Manipulates others for his own personal gain. Require responsibility from them.

Dealing with people:Love them unconditionallyAsk God for wisdom in working with themStay emotionally healthy yourselfDon’t elevate them to leadership positions in order to ‘rescue them’Be honest with God, yourself, and them

When you realize that people treat you according to how they see themselves rather than how you really are, you are less likely to take personally their behavior toward you. I am responsible for how I treat others. I may not be responsible for how they treat me; however, I am responsible for my reaction to those who are difficult. I can’t choose how you’ll treat me but I can choose how I will respond to you.

Friday, May 1, 2009

Service. We talk about it with flowery terms and preach and teach it with much earnest; but do we really know what it means to be a servant? Paul gives us one of the prime motives for service in 2 Cor 5:9 “Wherefore we labor, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” The greatest desire of a servant should be to please the Lord! The Christian’s longing should be to labor and be acceptable to Christ! It is our love for Him, our desire to please Him, and to be pleasing to Him that should move our hearts and govern our lives and cause us to suffer reproach for His name! Our desire should be to be acceptable unto Him no matter what our circumstances are! I want you to notice the word “labor” in 2 Corinthians 5:9. It is translated from a word that means “to be fond of honor.” Today we would liken the word to “ambition”. Paul was saying, “….we make it our ambition, that….we may be accepted of him.” Paul was speaking of his ambition in life, but not the kind of proud, selfish desire that “ambition” expresses in English. Paul demonstrated that it is right and noble for the believer to strive for excellence, spiritual goals, and all that is honorable before God…Paul’s ambition was not altered by his state of being—whether he should be in heaven or on earth—he cared how he lived for the Lord…This was Paul’s highest goal and should be so for every believer.

Friends, many believers today have no idea what a servant looks like. We have lost the servant’s heart, the servant’s love, and the servant’s faithfulness. Many today refuse to serve unless they can do something where they can be seen, praised, and admired. But those who serve the Lord with the servant’s heart with the servant’s love, and the servant’s faithfulness though unseen by men are still blessed by God! Listen to what someone wrote and see if it does not speak to your heart:

A CHOSEN VESSELThe Master was searching for a vessel to use;On the shelf there were many - which one would He choose?Take me, cried the gold one, I'm shiny and bright,I'm of great value and I do things just right.My beauty and lustre will outshine the restAnd for someone like You, Master, gold would be the best!

The Master passed on with no word at all;He looked at a silver urn, narrow and tall;I'll serve You, dear Master, I'll pour out Your wineAnd I'll be at Your table whenever You dine,My lines are so graceful, my carvings so true,And my silver will always compliment You.

Unheeding the Master passed on to the brass,It was widemouthed and shallow, and polished like glass.Here! Here! cried the vessel, I know I will do,Place me on Your table for all men to view.

Look at me, called the goblet of crystal so clear,My transparency shows my contents so dear,Though fragile am I, I will serve You with pride,And I'm sure I'll be happy in Your house to abide.

The Master came next to a vessel of wood,Polished and carved, it solidly stood.You may use me, dear Master, the wooden bowl said,But I'd rather You used me for fruit, not for bread!

Then the Master looked down and saw a vessel of clay.Empty and broken it helplessly lay.No hope had the vessel that the Master might choose,To cleanse and make whole, to fill and to use.

Ah! This is the vessel I've been hoping to find,I will mend and use it and make it all Mine.I need not the vessel with pride of its self;Nor the one who is narrow to sit on the shelf;

Nor the one who is bigmouthed and shallow and loud;Nor one who displays his contents so proud;Not the one who thinks he can do all things just right;But this plain earthy vessel filled with My power and might.

Then gently He lifted the vessel of clay.Mended and cleansed it and filled it that day.Spoke to it kindly. There's work you must do,Just pour out to others as I pour into you.~Author Unknown